Surplus electricity expected on GB system this summer as NESO rolls out new consumer flexibility tool

NESO expects sufficient electricity supplies across the summer months. Periods of excess electricity will be managed using new tools, ensuring the system remains resilient and that surplus power isn’t wasted.

Periods of surplus electricity have become more common in recent years. Since 2019 NESO has redesigned how it manages Great Britain’s national electricity network, introducing tools to manage times when generation from lower carbon sources is high. 

These include new services that provide system stability and voltage support, traditionally delivered by power stations. By using smaller, flexible technologies to deliver these services – including wind farms, solar and batteries – NESO can balance supply and demand while maintaining system security at the same or lower cost. 

NESO’s updated Demand Flexibility Service allows consumers and businesses to be rewarded for increasing electricity use via their energy suppliers or third-party apps. For example, by running appliances like washing machines or dishwashers and charging electric vehicles during periods of excess supply. Alongside other NESO tools, this will help balance the system and reinforce energy security. 

Electricity demand is typically lower in summer, as warmer and brighter weather changes consumption patterns and increases solar generation. The growth of smaller, local electricity generators is also reducing reliance on large power stations on the national network.

NESO is confident that it has the tools and operational strategies in place to manage these changing conditions effectively. Where necessary, NESO may issue a Negative Reserve Active Power Margin (NRAPM) notice. This is a standard market signal to increase flexibility in electricity generation. 

NESO continues to monitor risks in global energy markets closely and work with strategic partners to maintain system resilience. Preparations for Winter 2026/27 system operation are already underway, with an Early View report due later this summer. ​

Dr Deborah Petterson, Director of Resilience and Emergency Management, NESO

“The work of our excellent engineering teams at NESO means our energy system is well adapted to support a clean, resilient future, and puts us in a strong position to manage the changing patterns of electricity use over the summer. 

Tools such as the Demand Flexibility Service not only reward consumers and businesses for flexible electricity use but also strengthen the resilience and efficiency of Great Britain’s electricity network.”